What is Delhi's current air quality index (AQI)?

As of Wednesday, February 12, 2026, Delhi's 24-hour average AQI was 305, categorizing it as 'very poor'.

What is causing the air quality to worsen in Delhi?

The air quality has worsened due to low wind speeds, which reduce the dispersion of pollutants, and the influence of an approaching western disturbance.

What new measures are being implemented for air quality management in Delhi?

New uniform technical and operational norms for mechanized road sweeping have been issued to reduce dust pollution, with mandates for eco-friendly machines.

Home / Environment / Delhi Air Quality Dips to 'Very Poor' Amidst Shifting Winds

Delhi Air Quality Dips to 'Very Poor' Amidst Shifting Winds

12 Feb

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Summary

Delhi's AQI returned to 'very poor' levels after six days due to low wind speeds.
Three weak western disturbances are expected to affect northwest India soon.
New road sweeping norms aim to reduce dust pollution from vehicles.

Delhi Air Quality Dips to 'Very Poor' Amidst Shifting Winds

The air quality in Delhi has regressed into the 'very poor' category, registering an AQI of 305 as of Wednesday, February 12, 2026. This marks a decline after a six-day period of better air quality, attributed to reduced wind speeds that are hindering pollutant dispersion. Three western disturbances are forecast to impact northwest India sequentially, though they are expected to be weak.

Light rainfall might occur in parts of Rajasthan and potentially reach Delhi as a scattered drizzle around February 17, according to weather experts. However, no significant temperature fluctuations are anticipated. Mechanized road sweeping norms have been standardized across the region by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to curb dust pollution. New sweeping machines are mandated to be eco-friendly, running on CNG or electricity and equipped with dust suppression systems.